CUPERTINO, Calif., Jan. 31, 2026, 01:00 PST
- Apple’s second-generation AirTag remains priced at $29 but improves Precision Finding range and speaker volume
- Precision Finding is now supported on newer Apple Watch models, but you’ll need iOS 26.2.1 or later to use it
- Apple reports that over 50 airlines now accept Share Item Location links to aid in tracking down delayed luggage
Apple has rolled out the second-generation AirTag, marking its first significant upgrade since the tracker’s 2021 debut. Priced at $29, the new AirTag features a second-gen Ultra Wideband chip for improved direction-finding, a louder speaker, extended range, and now supports Precision Finding on the Apple Watch. It works only with iOS 26.2.1 or newer. (MacRumors)
Apple is doubling down on travel and luggage with this update. AirTag now taps into the Find My network—a crowdsourced mesh where nearby Apple devices help locate a tag—and can share a lost item’s location directly with airlines using the new Share Item Location feature. Apple says more than 50 carriers have adopted it so far. SITA, an airline IT provider, reports that airlines using this tech have cut baggage delays by 26% and slashed truly lost luggage by 90%. (Apple)
The tracker market is packed with competitors like Tile and Samsung’s SmartTag, but Apple’s advantage lies in the iPhone ecosystem and the built-in Find My app. According to a MacRumors comparison guide, AirTag 2 switches its Bluetooth identifiers more frequently—a move designed to curb covert tracking—while some retailers continue to offer first-generation AirTags at cheaper prices. (MacRumors)
On the software front, Apple announced that iOS 26.2.1 adds support for the second-generation AirTag and includes various bug fixes. (Wsparcie Apple)
Apple’s security notes for iOS 26.2.1 and watchOS 26.2.1 don’t mention any published CVEs, the standard IDs for known security vulnerabilities. These updates dropped on Jan. 26 and support iPhone 11 and newer, plus Apple Watch Series 6 and later, according to Apple’s security website. (Wsparcie Apple)
Bluetooth trackers face a recurring issue: they can be tucked away unnoticed in a bag or car. While safeguards exist, they rely heavily on users keeping their phones and apps updated—and actually paying attention to the alerts when they come through.
For many, the value of AirTag lies less in the device itself and more in the network supporting it. With every Apple device it encounters, the location updates more frequently, making it tough for newer competitors to catch up to its extensive coverage.
Apple’s latest tweaks are subtle externally but focus heavily on speed improvements under the hood—the kind of upgrade users only spot when they’re running late and the keys suddenly disappear.
Apple is expanding its subscription offerings with a new Creator Studio bundle that combines video, music, and image editing apps. “Apple Creator Studio is a great value that enables creators of all types to pursue their craft,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s services chief. (Apple)
Apple shares closed roughly 0.3% higher on Friday.
